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NORTHEAST MAGNET SCHOOL

Of GLOBAL STUDIES

603 Grove Street Montclair, NJ 07043

2013-2014

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NORTHEAST MAGNET SCHOOL OF GLOBAL STUDIES 603 GROVE STREET

MONTCLAIR, NJ 07043

Table of Contents Principal’s Welcome 3 PTA 4 School Action Team 5 Important Messages 6 Staff Roster 8 Northeast Magnet Theme – Global Studies Core Curriculum 9 Support Services _________________________ 14 Medical Information 17 School Procedures 19 Bullying Protocol____________________________________________________________26 Montclair Board of Education Mission, Vision, and Core Beliefs ________ 30

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PRINCIPAL'S WELCOME Dear Northeast Families, Welcome to the Northeast Magnet School of Global Studies. More then ever we are living in a time of globalization both in how we communicate and do business. Students need to be aware of how the world around them looks and operates. The ease in which technology allows us to communicate with any corner of any continent is the catalyst behind a “Global” approach to instruction. Northeast's use of interdisciplinary lessons, which connect Math, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies to globally thematic topics, reinforces concepts and satisfies this need to understand and appreciate world cultures. Here children are given the opportunity to make connections between living and learning. Meaningful and enriching experiences will facilitate academic, social and emotional success. At Northeast each grade level will be assigned to study a specific area of the globe. All students will have an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and knowledge of what they have learned. The kindergarten will be studying North America. Our first grade will cover South America. Second graders research Africa. Third graders are assigned to Australia. Fourth graders investigate Asia and fifth graders take on Europe. Each grade level has presentations framed around the information and learning of their designated continent or world region. All of these projects will be intertwined throughout the year to reinforce the curriculum.

Northeast is dedicated to exceeding standards and challenging our students to succeed academically. The reputation of the Northeast staff is one based on nurturing and high standards. Our PTA and SAT work tirelessly to bring new resources and opportunities to our school. We welcome all ideas and support. Collectively, our Northeast community is based on trust and respect. Staff, parents, students and all other stakeholders work very closely to build on Northeast's successes and enhance its magnet theme.

On behalf of the entire school we wish you all a wonderful year. Come discover what Northeast can offer you. I can be reached at cbilal@montclair.k12.nj.us or (973) 509-4242.

Warm regards,

Cenithia Bilal Principal Northeast School

Back to School Night: Tuesday, October 8th at 7:00 pm

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NORTHEAST PTA

www.northeastpta.org

Welcome! The Northeast PTA is an organization of parents, guardians, and teachers who are committed to enhancing the educational opportunities for all our children. We recognize that strong parental involvement improves school quality, and increases student success. The PTA helps to provide ways for parents to effectively support the work of our school's educators. This year Northeast will be on a year long journey committed to “Literacy and Community.” The PTA and School Action Team have been busy developing the details for a very productive and exciting year aimed at enhancing the educational environment in and out of the classroom. Your first opportunity to show your support will be to become a member of the Northeast PTA! A membership form can be found on the website. New families are also invited to attend our New Parent Reception to be held on September 26th at 7:00 pm. This is our way of easing the transition into your first year at Northeast. Details to follow! The second way to show your support will be to participate in events and programs that are planned throughout the year. Your participation might be that of a committee member, volunteer, or as an attendee. A sample of our community activities include: the Geography Bee, After School Enrichment, Scholastic Book Fair, Harvest Pancake Breakfast, Talent Show, Soccer-thon, and our End-of-Year Family Picnic. Any level of participation is appreciated! You can also show your support a third way by staying informed and providing us with feedback. To facilitate this, the PTA keeps communication flowing by holding quarterly meetings, posting announcements on our website www.northeastpta.org, publishing our biweekly PTA Newsletter and sending weekly email blasts. We encourage you to review and consult these resources to stay current. Comments can always be shared by contacting us directly at ptapres@northeastpta.org. We look forward to seeing you soon, Jody Rose-Bronner and Jane Berra PTA, Co-Presidents Carol Apprendi and Lisa Davies PTA, Co-Vice Presidents

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SCHOOL ACTION TEAM

The School Action Team (SAT) was created by the Board of Education to provide a means for parents/guardians and teachers to discuss and formulate proposals to improve the school's educational program, including recommending changes to the curriculum, discussing and evaluating proposed policy changes, and developing priorities and goals for the school. The purpose of the School Action Team is to facilitate a partnership between families, teachers, and the principal to build on the successes of the education of Northeast's children. At the beginning of each school year the SAT, in concert with the principal, establishes goals and chooses specific projects for the upcoming year. Parent and teacher volunteers are recruited for the projects. The School Action Team meets several times a year to discuss parents' concerns, issues impacting the school, and to report on the progress of the projects underway. Meetings are held either in the morning or evening with most being held in conjunction with scheduled PTA meetings. Notices and/or reminders of scheduled meeting dates and times are sent home throughout the school year. The 2013-2014 school year includes four district wide goals:

• High expectations and achievement for all • Consistent and rigorous instruction across all classrooms • Effective communications and parent engagement • Effective magnet programming

The School Action Team is an important way for all parents to share their ideas and expertise to improve the Northeast educational program. Every parent can make a difference and help us improve the school. This year’s team will make every effort to structure the projects to accommodate the realities of parental time constraints so that everyone who wants to can find a way to volunteer. Please come and participate in this unique partnership. Paula Donaldson and Leslie Kunkin - Parent Co-Chairs TBD - Teacher Co-Chairs PTA/School Action Team Meeting Schedule: Wed. September 25th PTA/SAT 7:00 PM Wed. December 18th PTA/SAT 8:45 AM Wed. March 12th PTA/SAT 7:00 PM Tues. June 9th End of the Year PTA 8:45 AM (Volunteer Appreciation

Breakfast) Tues., June 10th End of the Year PTA/SAT 7:00 PM

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IMPORTANT MESSAGES

The following information is to ensure your child has a smooth transition if there is any change in his/her regular schedule. Children derive a great deal of security when they know where they are going next. Therefore, we would like to prepare your child for any change in his/her day.

• Please send a note when your child has a change in his/her transportation; for example, if they usually take the bus, but today they have a play date, or someone else is picking them up, etc. Students may tell us they have a play date or they are a walker today, but we must have a note to confirm this to ensure your child’s safety.

• If your child has a play date with another child, they may not take a bus home unless it is his/her regular bus. If it is his/her bus and the stop is changing, then you will need to send a note for the bus driver/aide, and also notify the Transportation Department at 973-509-4055. Please note that children are not allowed to switch to a different bus for any reason unless authorized by Transportation.

• Please call or write a note if your child has to leave school early. Children leaving

school early must be picked up before 2:15 p.m. Dismissal time is busy, especially when the children are just returning from a Related Arts class.

• Also, tell your child they have a note in their backpack and try to remember to give

it to the teacher when they first arrive to school. Sometimes, notes do not always appear until they are on a bus line.

Thank you for your assistance in your child’s school experience.

COMMUNICATION AND LEARNING

Our district goals are framed around student achievement and creating a secure environment for all children. You can help us to achieve these goals by working together with us. We request that you do the following:

• Upon entering the building, please go directly to the office, check in with the office staff, sign in and pick up and wear a visitor’s badge.

• If you are bringing in an item for your child such as lunch, a musical instrument, homework, a clothing item, project, special snack, etc., please drop it off in the office. We know you would like to go to the classroom to ensure it reaches your child, but this means the teacher must stop teaching, which interrupts learning for everyone. We will make sure all items are delivered to the classroom.

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• If you need to let any staff member know something you may e-mail him/her, or call the office and they will leave a message in his/her box. You may send a note with your child. If you are worried your child will not give the teacher the note, please feel free to call the office and we will remind the teacher to ask your child for the note.

• If you are in the building volunteering in classrooms, or attending a grade level

presentation, assembly, etc. please do not stop by and visit your child or their teacher as it interrupts learning.

Thank you for helping us to support achievement!

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NORTHEAST MAGNET SCHOOL OF GLOBAL STUDIES STAFF ROSTER

Cenithia Bilal, Principal Lino Martire, Dean of Students & Operations Head Secretary Secretary Head Custodian Custodian Teresa Matthews Jeanne Heimlich Steve Yekel Greg March Kindergarten: Room Third Grade: Room Dans Cornwell/E. Viereck 11 Colleen Frank 27 Linda Garvey 19 Kristine Greenhalgh-Checchetto 28 Arlene Stephenson 08 Rebecca Ferguson 33 First Grade: Fourth Grade: Cara Damiano 30 Simona Assuntino - Math 26 Janice Jacobs 32 Diane Conahan - ELA 22 Honey Walia 34 Sabra Scott – SCI/SS 25 Second Grade: Fifth Grade: Karen Caldwell 14 Deborah Maher - ELA 21 Tatiana Enslin 13 Alice Hermida – Sci/SS 23 Karyn Maliszewski 12 Kay Whang - Math 20 Special Education: Related Arts: Judy Alday 24A Shawn Dey – Music Anisha Philip/J. Villalobos 24B Jorge Larrea – Art Eugene Asimou – Phys. Ed. Nurse: David Rowbotham – Phys. Ed. Barbara Good Main Office Kristen McCann – Technology Bronnie Beesley- Library Curriculum Support: Carole Jecki – Curr. Support ELA/GS Nancy Franklin - ELA Library Peg Platzman – Math 35 Resource Center: TBA 35 Teacher Assistants: Kimberly Couden 29 Michelle Marie Ferrer Felice Landau 29 Lorrie Hunter Janet Lawrence 15 Linda Papaleo Shovine Flora Student Assistance Counselor: Carol Papa Debra Pollizano Beth Albert Donna Sopra no ESL: Michele Corino Beth Martin 15 Melissa D’Amico Donna DeBonis Child Study Team: Eileen Bohnert Ruth Rohrer – Psychologist Alfreda Massop Leslie Bass – LDTC Jenine Denham Kristen Niemczyk-Kistner -Social Worker Ingrid Berly Cheryl Starr – Speech Therapist April Johnson Lora Orta – Teacher of the Deaf Indira Nekram Jolene Jurkovic – Physical Therapist Jeremy Hudson Cathryn Durham – Occupational Therapist [shared] Lisa Najimian Joyce Murphy Janice Goberman

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NORTHEAST MAGNET THEME – GLOBAL STUDIES CORE CURRICULUM

The Board of Education encourages the certified staff, under the direction of the superintendent, to employ a comprehensive approach to the use of appraisal and evaluative techniques in monitoring pupil progress, including, but not limited to, mandated state, and federal tests, recognized standardized achievement testing programs, written and oral teacher-made tests, performance observation, parental or guardian interview, formal and informal evaluation techniques, use of cumulative pupil records, and medical examinations. Pupils are expected to participate in all tests, including district-administered tests, unless otherwise prohibited by the pupil’s Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Children are heterogeneously assigned to classes at each grade level, K-5. English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies constitute the Core Curriculum. A developmental approach is implemented in the primary grades with emphasis on the use of manipulatives and integrated language and centered learning. The fourth and fifth grade teachers team-teach various disciplines and implement project-based work, as well as cooperative group learning. Smaller group instruction occurs through the use of teaching assistants, a partnership with Montclair State University, creative flex scheduling, reading and math teachers, parent volunteers, and support staff. Homework is assigned based on the needs of the students, as well as the curriculum. Usually homework is only given Monday through Thursday, however, sometimes there are projects that will have different time lines. The Board of Education has issued the following homework guidelines: Kindergarten - one assigned activity 4x per week Grades 1-2 - approximately 30 minutes 4x per week Grades 3-5 approximately one hour 4x per week Every attempt is made by the teacher to follow these guidelines, but homework and the time frames may change.

RELATED ARTS

All students attend weekly classes in Related Arts (Music, Art, Physical Education, Library, and Technology). The students' schedules this year will include some items built in to enhance their experience at Northeast. One period a week students will have a block period of one particular related arts class (K-1: Library, 2/4: Art, and 3/5:Technology). This 80-minute block will be utilized to give more in-depth and focused instruction to students as well as allow them to receive Global Studies on a more frequent schedule.

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JOURNEYS TO ENRICHMENT

Journeys is a program which takes place for students in grades 3-5. The first semester of Journeys focuses on continent study and social studies. Starting in January, curriculum skills and concepts will be reinforced and presented to students in a variety of formats, including standardized tests. Some examples are:

• How to organize information, • How to look at questions, • How to take apart a word problem, • How to approach open ended questions, • How to check your work for accuracy, • How to locate key words, and • How to examine information when it is presented differently.

The focus is on English Language Arts, Math, Writing, and Science, but these skills may be implemented in other disciplines. This instruction may happen in small or large groups.

GLOBAL STUDIES

Global Studies is a powerful perspective for examining and understanding our world’s people, places, and problems. Geography is a subject that can unite the curriculum and support academic skills. Studying the world provides our students with opportunities to reflect on cultural diversity, the global economy, politics, and real life issues. Global education at Northeast School is a meaningful way to excite children about learning and to teach the necessary skills they will need as tomorrow’s citizens, leaders, peacemakers, and protectors of our resources. Each grade level studies a designated continent using the National Geographic standards as a framework. Students use maps, the environment, politics, topography, current events, and population statistics to understand the past, present, and the future. Our global studies teacher works with all students K-5 and collaborates with teachers to develop and integrate these skills into the curriculum. Students meet once a week for one period.

CONTINENT STUDIES

Each grade level studies a designated continent. These studies may encompass the following: the history, customs, art, music, food, dance, legends, housing, folk tales, current events, topography, geography, animals, habitats, economy, social conditions, environmental issues, holidays, traditions, and landmarks. Kindergarten - North America Grade 1 - South America Grade 2 - Africa Grade 3 - Australia Grade 4 - Asia Grade 5 – Europe

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PRESENTATIONS AND EXHIBITS

It is important and necessary for students to find connections between curriculum and theme. Each grade level will have an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and knowledge of what they have learned about their continent study. Presentations and exhibits show achievement and allow students to reflect on his/her own work, as well as the work of others. This type of communication enhances children’s feelings of belonging to a larger social unit within their school. The spirit of caring about the learning throughout the school community helps to create an ethos in which the older and the younger children respect and support each other. K-2 students will have grade level presentations to represent their learning experience of each designated continent. The third grade will have a presentation framed around the social studies curriculum, as well as their continent study of Australia. The fourth grade will have an Asia studies exposition, which will incorporate art, writing, and technology. The fifth grade will have a European Exhibit, which will feature art, writing and technology.

WORLD LANGUAGE

Spanish instruction will be implemented at Northeast School in all K-5 classrooms. Students will receive 40 minutes of Spanish lessons per week, grades K-2 using the Salsa Program and grades 3-5 using the Risas y Sonrisas Program. The teachers will introduce this video collection of familiar fairy tales and will follow-up with activities to promote second language acquisition. SALSA has a unique ability to capture the imagination of children as they begin to learn Spanish and identify with different cultures. Additionally, the elementary schools have signed on with Risas y Sonrisas for Grades 3-5. Risas y Sonrisas is a more interactive approach to learning foreign language and the program provides online resources. Each student will have access in school and at home. Both programs are designed to allow non-Spanish classroom teachers to implement Spanish lessons to our students.

MUSIC PROGRAM

Music is an art, a way of expressing ideas and emotions. Music can build bridges between cultures, classes, and individuals. At Northeast, we provide a variety of musical opportunities, which facilitate the discovery and development of each child’s own ability and awareness. All students participate in the general music program. Concepts such as melody, harmony, rhythm, form, tone color, composition, notation and performance practice are studied. In grades K and 1, singing, creative movement, and classroom percussion instruments are used to help facilitate learning. Grade 2 adds a string component to this base with the study of the ukulele. In 3rd grade, students are introduced to the woodwind family through the soprano recorder. 4th grade uses steel drums, creating a focus on pitched percussion

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instruments. In grade 5, tone chimes, a type of hand bell, are used to express and refine the knowledge developed in prior years. In addition to this core base of western music skills, the study of ethnomusicology is woven through all grade levels. Learning about the music of other cultures is a key way to connect to the world outside of Montclair. World music is horizontally tied into each grade level’s specific magnet theme concentration. Choral music at Northeast is taught at every grade level. Students in K-2 perform vocal selections at their individual class presentations. These songs are tied directly into academic areas of study. All children in grades 3-5 participate in the Winter Concert. A wide variety of choral literature is memorized and performed for the Northeast Community. Students in the 4th and 5th grades may exercise their option to participate in Northeast’s band program. Group lessons are offered during the school day on a rotating pullout basis. In addition, there are two bands, which rehearse during the week to prepare for a variety of performance venues. Areas of instrumental study include flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto and tenor saxophone, trumpet, French horn, baritone horn, trombone, tuba, electric bass, and percussion. Participation in the band is a great way to prepare for middle school instrumental programs, or to just try something new. The process promotes responsibility, instills discipline, and encourages teamwork in each child.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS English As a Second Language (ESL) Program

We are proud to welcome students from many different countries speaking a variety of languages from around the world. The students are called ELL (English Language Learners). They are a valuable resource in our school community. Northeast offers a special program for international students called English as a Second Language (ESL). The program measures the student’s communication skills in four basic areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Since communication is a two-way process, which develops gradually, we try carefully to integrate students into our school and way of life.

The program functions on a pullout basis. Groups ranging from three to six students are pulled from their classes for a forty-minute (one period) session. If class scheduling and the number of students permit, students attend two sessions daily. Generally, students are grouped by age and level of English. Students are offered ESL services during reading and language arts classes. Every effort is made to work with children during times when other basic skills and related arts classes are taught.

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CHARACTER EDUCATION

Character Education, or Social and Emotional Learning, prepares students for life in an ever-changing world. Experience and research show that promoting social and emotional development in children is an integral part of improving schools. Character Education has a broad focus and takes place across settings and disciplines. The social and emotional education of the children of Northeast is provided through a variety of diverse efforts and is being integrated throughout the curriculum at Northeast School. The moral development of students primarily depends on the adults with whom they interact, especially parents and staff. Some teachers have students make entries into journals using topics such as honesty, respect, kindness, and tolerance. Teachers use real life ethical and moral issues to model good citizenship and problem solving skills for our students.

Some teachers have open circles for sharing positive attributes about each other. Project-based work is implemented which helps to foster open-mindedness, rights of others, and a culture of cooperative learning. Opportunities such as Book Buddies, provides students with an opportunity to develop moral thinking and qualities of respect, fairness, and empathy. Mrs. Debra Polizzano, our Student Assistance Counselor, speaks with all students about anti-bullying strategies at the beginning of the year, and plans special programs for our students. Each month, every class honors a citizen of the month. Some attributes defining good citizenship are: responsibility, respect, fairness, self-control, courage, caring, trustworthiness, perseverance, a good work ethic, and a positive attitude. In addition, our Physical Education teacher addresses fairness, sportsmanship, positive attitudes, and teamwork in all of his classes. The entire staff at Northeast School continues to grow morally and ethically searching for new ways to strengthen a school culture of respect and caring.

Our school pledge: I will be respectful, kind and safe.

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SUPPORT SERVICES

Northeast has a number of support services to help children with special needs grow in a safe and positive environment.

DEAN OF STUDENTS & OPERATIONS

Mr. Lino Martire, our new Dean of Students and Operations, will make use of resources across the school to ensure an environment that builds and maintains a positive, school culture where our students flourish. Some examples of the Dean’s role:

• Assist in coordinating and implementing a school-wide behavior management system with positive incentives and consequences.

• Coordinate and oversee the school’s character development program and ensure it builds and reinforces positive self-identify and necessary character strengths.

• Assist in building community to enhance and strengthen the school’s magnet theme by creating partnerships with parents and families, leading recognition assemblies, parent workshops, family and community service events and other school-wide culture-building activities.

• Ensure that the physical environment of the school reinforces school culture and facilitates student achievement.

• Model the school’s values and standards for professional behavior.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE COUNSELOR

Mrs. Debra Polizzano, our Student Assistance Counselor (SAC), is available for all children that need to discuss and resolve matters of importance to them. Students visit with the SAC based on teacher referrals, student requests, or parental referrals.

Topics covered may include self-confidence, anxiety, separation, divorce, grief, anger, drug/alcohol awareness, peer conflict, or any problem that may be affecting a student’s school experience socially or emotionally. A student may see the counselor once or more than once depending on the need. Parents will be notified if more than one meeting is required or requested.

THE CHILD STUDY TEAM (CST)

The CST, headed by the Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant (LDTC), identifies, evaluates, and plans individualized education programs for students experiencing learning difficulties. The team also includes a social worker and a school psychologist.

The school nurse provides medical information and hearing and vision screening, if needed. The CST provides appropriate consultation and monitoring services for students, parents, and staff, and determines pupil eligibility for special education and related services in

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accordance with federal and state requirements through an Intervention and Referral Process. Services at our school may include Resource Center (inclusion or replacement), Occupational/Physical Therapy, and Speech.

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

SPEECH THERAPY

The Speech Therapist provides services to identified children for articulation and language development.

RESOURCE CENTER REPLACEMENT

A certified special education teacher provides replacement instruction in academic subjects to students who are classified with a learning disability. Services are scheduled based on student’s individual needs and take place in the Resource Center.

RESOURCE CENTER SUPPORT

A certified special education teacher provides support in academic subjects to students who are classified with a learning disability. Services are scheduled based on student’s individual needs and may take place in the regular classroom or in the Resource Center.

INCLUSION

A certified special education teacher provides support in the classroom setting. The classroom teacher and special education teacher plan collaboratively.

SERVICES TO AT RISK STUDENTS

Students who receive academic support in grades 1-5 are below grade level as measured by the DRA2 reading assessment, teacher assessment, grades, and performance on the NJASK standardized test. The NJASK is administered to grades 3-5. The program provides individual and small group instruction based on the student’s specific needs in reading, language arts and/or math. Students also receive support in their classrooms by the classroom teacher and other support staff.

ADAPTIVE PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The adaptive physical education program provides extra assistance to students who need to strengthen their motor skills.

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CURRICULUM SUPPORT READING/MATH

We have a full time reading teacher who works cooperatively with classroom teachers to provide smaller group instruction. All students in grades 1-5 are assessed using the DRA2 (Developmental Reading Assessment) program. All students have the opportunity to participate in the Accelerated Reader Program using authentic literature and corresponding comprehensive assessments. We also have a full time math teacher who works with students in grades 1-5 to provide math instruction to small groups.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS (ELA)/MATH CURRICULUM COACHES

We have Curriculum Coaches for Math and English Language Arts who are familiar with the new curriculum and assessments implemented this year. The Curriculum Coaches will work with teachers in grades K-5. The primary responsibility of each coach is to provide support and feedback to grade level or subject area colleagues in the implementation of the newly developed Common Core State Standards (CCSS) curriculum units and interim assessments. The coaches are experienced with curriculum unit and interim assessment development, possess a keen understanding of the CCSS, and have a deep commitment to student achievement and peer support.

S.A.I.L. (Students Accelerated in Learning) The Montclair Public School district, in accordance with the NJDOE Administrative Code, N.J.A.C. 6A:8-13, believes that all children deserve a rich and challenging K-12 curriculum. Montclair Public Schools recognize that rather than any single gifted program, a continuum of curriculum opportunities are offered through differentiated instruction (S.A.I.L.) within the classroom setting. Differentiation is qualitative instruction rather than quantitative. Students’ diverse needs and experiences can become a springboard for specific learning activities that deepen rather than widen the scope of curriculum content. Students have opportunities to work in ever-changing groups because of their cache of knowledge and individual abilities. Students in grades K-5 will be identified through multiple measures including: district assessments, grades, teacher/administrator recommendations, and state standardized test scores (grades 3-5). Eligibility is reviewed annually.

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MEDICAL INFORMATION

School Health Services School Health Services are designed to protect and promote the optimum health of students and school personnel. Such a goal can only be reached if home and school understanding and cooperation exist. This section is meant to provide the basis of such informed cooperation. Parents are urged to keep their child home from school when he/she shows any of the following signs or symptoms of contagious illness: (during the night and/or morning of school) chills, excessive coughing, fever, vomiting, undiagnosed skin rashes or eruptions, diarrhea, irritated eyes (i.e., pink eye) or head lice. If the school nurse observes any of these signs or symptoms while the child is in school, parents will be notified and the child will be excluded from school. Telephone numbers written on the Emergency Reference Card will be used to contact parents. If the parents are unavailable, the designated emergency number will be called. The contagious diseases that require exclusion from school are: measles, mumps, rubella, flu, chicken pox, small pox, impetigo, ringworm of the scalp, salmonella, lice infestation, fever, typhoid, conjunctivitis, meningococcal, untreated staph or strep infections. Contagious diseases should be reported to the school at all times. The nurse should also be informed of any medical problem concerning a student, e.g., heart, orthopedic, surgery, allergies, long-term disabilities, etc. Diagnosis or treatment beyond first aid procedures is not within the responsibility of the school.

Physical Education Excuses If a child sustains an injury or has a medical condition, which requires a physical education excuse, please have the physician specify in writing the exact length of time that the child must be excluded from gym. The nurse should be notified of the doctor’s orders. A copy of the excuse will be kept in the child’s medical record.

Medication Policy Many children bring medication to school. The policy regarding medication is: The school shall not provide the student with any medication. Students requiring medication at school must have a written statement from the family physician, which identifies the dosage, time, and purpose of the medication. A permission note to the nurse from the parent/guardian is also required. All medication is to be supplied by the parent/guardian in a well-labeled container. The label must list the name of the drug, the time to be given, the doctor’s name, and the doctor’s phone number and must be kept in the nurse’s office and administered by the

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school nurse. Please include a proper measuring device for the administration of the medicine. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to call the school nurse at (973) 509-4241.

Parents/guardians may also visit the Montclair Board of Education website at www.montclair.k12.nj.us/schoolhealth/index.html. Click on the Forms tab across the top of the district web page to download school health forms. Additional information can be accessed regarding medications, screenings, required immunizations, required physicals, procedures for illnesses, and change in health status.

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SCHOOL PROCEDURES

School Hours The first bell rings at 8:10 A.M. Students should not arrive prior to this time. School begins at 8:20 A.M. and ends at 2:35 P.M. Students will be marked tardy after 8:20 am. If a student must be picked up early from school, parents must send in a note to the teacher and sign students out in the office. This must be done prior to 2:15 P.M. Parents must send in a note from home if there is a change in his/her child’s regular dismissal procedure, unless there is an emergency situation. Curriculum meetings in all schools are scheduled each month, except September and December. Northeast School will dismiss at 1:10 P.M. on those Thursdays. Please check your district calendar for those dates.

Attendance It is important that students attend school on a regular basis unless they are ill. Parents are asked to call the school office press option #1 for the attendance line, leave a recorded message to inform us if your youngster is going to be absent. If your child is out 1-2 days, please do not request homework. Only if your child is out 3 days, please call the office first thing in the morning to request homework. Students returning from any absence must submit an appropriate written excuse to the classroom teacher. If a youngster must be absent for a reason other than illness, parents should notify the principal in writing. Vacations scheduled during school days are discouraged and students will be marked absent. Parents are urged to have students be on time for opening exercises. It sends a powerful message about valuing school and education. The classroom teacher marks students late after 8:20 A.M. Students arriving late to school after 8:20 A.M. must report directly to the office to correct their attendance for the day.

Birthday Celebrations

Our district goals are always to improve student achievement for everyone. In order to meet these goals and strengthen instruction, we try to limit the number of interruptions in the classrooms. Birthday celebrants will have his/her birthday party in the classroom, but may bring their special birthday treat to the office rather than going to the other classrooms. The staff always enjoys acknowledging a student’s birthday, but that can mean sometimes stopping a lesson or activity, several times. When bringing in treats, please consider students with allergies and always choose healthy ones. Water is always better than juice.

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We must ask parents not to remove siblings from other classrooms to attend their sibling’s classroom birthday party. Additional Reminders:

• We cannot light any candles in the classroom, due to fire codes.

• Parents may bring balloons to school. However, balloons are not permitted on the buses. It presents a vision issue for the driver.

• Try to make the birthday snacks as healthy as possible and please consider classmates with allergies.

• Always consult with the teacher for the time and day to celebrate your child’s birthday.

Emergency School Closings

Please refer to the handout that is given out the first day of school. Also, you may call 509-4242 and press #6 at any time to hear snow closings and delays.

School Scheduled Periods Regular Dismissal Early Dismissal 1st Bell 8:10 A.M. 1st Bell 8:10 A.M. Late Bell 8:20 A.M. Late Bell 8:20 A.M. Period Period 1 8:30-9:10 1 8:20-9:00 2 9:12-9:52 2 9:02-9:32 3 9:54-10:34 3 9:34-10:04 4 10:36-11:16 4 10:06-10:36 5 11:18-12:08 5 10:38-11:13 6 12:10-1:00 6 11:15-11:50 7 1:02-1:42 7 11:52-12:22 8 1:45-2:25 8 12:24-1:10 Dismissal 2:35 PM Dismissal 1:10 PM

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Extended Care Program Before and after school care is available at Northeast for students of parents desiring this service. The Montclair YMCA sponsors this program.

Hours - 7:30 - 8:20 AM

2:35 - 6:30 PM Contact: The Montclair YMCA at (973) 744-3400

Communication from School The school strives to keep parents well informed about the curriculum, the school program, and students’ progress. Announcements and information concerning these matters will be sent home with the students or e-mailed to you. Please teach your child to bring these papers home and give them to you. Additionally, please make sure the school has your most updated e-mail address. In the interest of “Going Green” Northeast will be sending more correspondence via email to reduce our carbon footprint. All correspondence should be carefully read and saved for reference. CHECK THOSE BACKPACKS! An informed parent is the best parent. What to look for on a consistent basis:

• Friday - Principal’s Newsletter (once every two weeks) and a Monthly Calendar of events • Report Cards - 3 times per year, December, March, June • Warning Notices (if needed) 3 times per year (Grades 3-5) • PTA Newsletter (once every two weeks)

Bussers (Arrive on Windermere Rd., and dismiss from circular driveway on Grove Street) Walkers, Carpoolers and Student Safety We currently have eight busses transporting students to and from school. Busses will discharge students on Windermere Road. This is the special indented part of the road designated for “Student Drop Off.” Cars are not permitted in this area. Do not park in this area. Staff will be outside to ensure that all bussers go directly into the school using the gymnasium door. Bussers will be dismissed in front of the building from the circular driveway at 2:35 p.m. on a regular day and at 1:10 p.m. on an abbreviated day.

Morning Arrival

Carpoolers should drop off students in the front of the school in the circular driveway. The lane closest to the school is a DROP OFF LANE ONLY. This means staff and some parents will be there to open the door and allow your child to exit. If you need to get out of your car, please find parking nearby. This lane will only be used to STOP and DROP off your child. When you stop to drop please:

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• Make sure you stop parallel to the curb. All other cars need to pass by safely. • Pull all the way down the driveway to an open spot. • Do not wait for the open space directly in front of the red doors.

Please do not stop in the center lane and allow your child to exit. This is extremely dangerous. Also, only make a right turn as you exit the circular driveway in the morning. Parking is permitted in the circular driveway only between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The porch door will be open only until 8:20 a.m. for all students coming up from Yantacaw Brook Road. There will be staff at this door. All parents/guardians who are entering the building must report to the office. Parents/guardians of kindergartners will be allowed to walk their child to his/her classroom until September 20th. All other grade level parents will be permitted to walk students the first day of school. There are many adults in the hallways to assist our students. For the safety and security of Northeast School, this must be adhered to.

Afternoon Dismissal

Dismissal of walkers/carpoolers will take place at the following locations: Kindergarten - Garvey, Stephenson - Outside door across from storage shed Cornwell/Viereck - Outside porch door First/Third Grade - Outside door near stairs (by field) Second Grade - Outside porch door Fourth/Fifth Grade - Outside door nearest Grove Street /parking lot Classroom teachers will dismiss all students. There will be teams of teachers. Some will wait with bussers and some will take walkers/carpoolers. Make sure the teacher knows that you have picked up your child. All students who walk home alone must have written permission to indicate that they are allowed to walk home without an adult. Please do not park in the staff parking lot when picking up walkers. Thank you! Parents are asked to send, in writing, any change in a student’s normal dismissal routine. Changes will not be made without a note, unless there is an emergency. All play dates should be made in advance and notes sent to that effect. If you are picking up your child before the end of the day, you must do this before 2:15 p.m. before busses arrive.

Parent Teacher Conferences

This year, three days (Dec. 11 and 13, and March 21) have been designated for afternoon parent conferences as well as two evenings on Thursday, December 12 and Thursday, March 20. Teachers will contact parents for appointments. Parents should feel free,

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however, to contact the teacher anytime by note, by phone or e-mail to share any specific concerns that may occur.

Clothing and Personal Belongings Please be sure that all clothing is labeled and that your child’s name is on his/her lunch box. Our lost clothing bin fills up quickly. Periodically check our “Lost and Found” located in the porch door area.

Bus Safety and Behavior As a reminder to our riders and parents, the ride to and from school is an extension of the classroom and as such, the authority for discipline rests with the school. We expect our students to respond appropriately to the bus aide and driver, remain in his/her seat with the seat belt buckled, keep arms, hands and head inside the bus, be respectful to others, and keep seats, etc. in good condition. Failure to observe these rules can result in suspension from the bus.

• 1st infraction - warning and parent notified • 2nd infraction - 5 day bus suspension -parent notified • 3rd infraction - 30 day bus suspension -parent notified

Field Trips Students will take field trips, which support the curriculum throughout the school year. Each time a consent form will be sent home indicating the destination, date, and cost. In the past, students bringing spending money on trips became a concern. Some parent chaperones were buying items for children. To address this issue of sensitivity and equity, it was decided by the School Action Team unanimously that children would not bring money on field trips. Also, the team requested that parent chaperones be reminded of this rule prior to their class field trips.

Volunteers

Parents volunteering or attending class parties should leave siblings at home for liability reasons. Volunteering at Northeast School may happen in a multitude of ways. You may become a classroom volunteer as a Science or Technology Coordinator, help with a classroom newsletter, or assist on classroom book selection day. You may work with small groups of students or help to do some clerical types of activities. School wide you may become a reading volunteer for another class or work in the Library, Art Room, Writer's Room (3rd, 4th & 5th grades), etc. Each teacher has his or her own style of organizing the classroom. The need and organizational style of each teacher will help determine how to use volunteers effectively.

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We love volunteers and invite parents and family members to visit our school. All volunteers and visitors must report to the office. Please sign in the volunteer book in the office and wear a visitor’s badge. Parking directly in front of the building on Grove Street is prohibited. Limited short-term parking is available on the circular drive during non-bus hours (9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.). We look forward to your volunteer service at Northeast School. Volunteers will officially begin the first week of November.

Lunch We run two 50-minute lunch periods, periods 5 and 6. During Period 5, which runs from 11:18-12:08, K’s eat in classrooms. Grades 1 and 2 eat in the lunchroom. Period 6 12:10-1:00, grades 3, 4, and-5 eat in the lunchroom. The classroom teacher will collect lunch money in advance for the following week as well as on a daily basis. Students are expected to bring lunch from home if they do not purchase lunch in school. Please do not send glass containers to school. Sharing food is strongly discouraged due to health issues. Please remember to complete the lunch application located on the district website, whether or not you wish to apply.

Student Behavior

We view discipline as educational and not punitive. Northeast students are expected to use good manners, be responsible, and respectful of others and their property at all times. We will encourage appropriate behavior of all our students through Character Education and other opportunities. In cases of disruptive behavior, which interferes with learning, consequences will be imposed.

In most cases, teachers will attempt to problem solve and handle routine problems but occasionally, students will be referred to the Dean of Students and Operations, Principal or Student Assistance Counselor. Unacceptable behavior will be discussed with the student and a parent will be called if necessary. The student may remain in time out in the office for a period of time, be assigned lunch detention or, if necessary, be sent home with the parent. The home and school working as a partnership is necessary to help students resolve issues and have a positive school experience.

Communications Process

Comments, concerns, and suggestions from parents are always welcomed. You are encouraged to first call the teacher with any concerns regarding your child. If any concern that you have needs additional attention, please call the Dean of Students and Operations or Principal. All parents/guardians are also encouraged to attend PTA and School Action Team meetings.

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From the Board of Education Electronic Devices

Bringing or possessing remotely activated paging devices by student on property used for school purposes without express written permission of school board will constitute a disorderly persons offense. No person enrolled as a student of elementary or secondary school, knowingly and without the express written permission of the school board its delegated authority, or any school principal, shall bring or possess any remotely activated paging device on any property used for school purposes, at any time and regardless of whether school is in session or other persons are present. A violation of this section shall be a disorderly persons offense. No permission to bring or possess any remotely activated paging device on school property shall be granted unless and until a student shall have established to the satisfaction of the school property. This section shall not apply to any student who is an active member of good standing of a volunteer fire company or first aid, ambulance or rescue squad provided that (1) the student is required to respond to an emergency and (2) a copy of the statement by the chief executive officer of the volunteer fire company or first aid ambulance or rescue squad authorizing the possession of a paging device is in the possession of the student all times while that student is in possession of the remotely activated page device.

Electronic Games

Electronic games are not permitted in school, which also includes use at recess and on the bus. Please speak with your child about bringing any electronic games (Game Boy, ADS, Double Screen) with them. We have had many children upset when they have been lost. Thank your for your cooperation.

Cell Phones Students may bring a cell phone to school, but it must remain in his/her backpack until dismissal. Once your child has been dismissed by his/her teacher or has exited the bus, the cell phone may be turned on. Thank you for your cooperation.

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Bullying and Teasing Protocols

If a student has been found to be bullying or teasing another student(s), the following procedures usually occur. As you know, the age of the student can alter this sequence and other circumstances may change the protocol. Generally, this is what will happen:

• The teacher, Dean of Students and Operations, Principal and/or Student Assistance Counselor, will speak with the student about the incident and remind the student of what is appropriate and acceptable behavior.

• The teacher will review the definition of bullying and/or teasing with the student. The teacher, and possibly the principal and/or counselor, may have the student make an entry into a Problem Solving Journal.

• The teacher or counselor might use this opportunity to role-play, read a book about

bullying/teasing, or have a class meeting.

• The teacher, and possibly the principal and/or counselor will speak or conference with parent or guardian concerning the incident.

• A letter will be sent home by the principal to the parent/guardian to document all the procedures that had been implemented.

• Depending on the seriousness of the incident, the student may serve a school suspension determined by the principal.

• Parents/guardians may be advised to seek outside counseling if the behavior continues.

• Staff will help develop an action plan with parents/guardians and student to assist changing student’s behavior.

Definition of Bullying

Bullying is unfair, and one sided. It occurs when someone keeps hurting, frightening, or leaving someone out intentionally. Bullying always involves an imbalance of power that is not necessarily based on physical size. Bullying may include words, hints, gestures, insinuations, or physical acts.

Definition of Teasing Teasing is making fun of someone that causes the person being teased to feel sad, angry, upset, afraid, embarrassed, or helpless. Teasing may include tormenting, harassing, or verbal bullying. Continual joking and kidding around often leads to an act of teasing and damages one’s self-esteem.

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Definition of Misbehavior

Physical: Any physical movement that may cause harm/injury to others or property including: pushing, slapping, grabbing, scratching, biting, punching, kicking, slapping, spitting, stealing and vandalism. Emotional/Social: Any gesture, written or verbal behavior that may cause emotional discomfort including: excluding someone from social groups or participation in any group activities, starting rumors, discouraging others from being friends with someone, intimidation, giving the silent treatment, and making harmful threats. Bullying: Any pattern of misbehavior that attempts to cause physical and/or emotional harm to one or more targets. There is often a perceived or real power differential between the person(s) being bullied and the person(s) doing the bullying. Our school is particularly concerned with bringing attention to “relational aggression” which refers to acts of emotional bullying hidden among networks of friends. Instead of using physical displays of aggression, emotional bullying employs relationships, words and gestures as the primary means to harm others.

Good Habits 1. Come to school ready to learn and to be the best that you can be. 2. Treat others in a way that you want to be treated. 3. Respect the rights, feelings, and property of others, and offer help when needed. 4. Keep our Northeast School beautiful and clean.

Our school pledge: I will be respectful, kind and safe.

Bus Conduct and Discipline

The bus driver and/or bus aide will complete a Bus Conduct Report in the event of a student’s inappropriate behavior on the bus. The Bus Conduct Report will be submitted to the building Dean of Students and Operations or Principal. This is in accordance with Board Policy (5131.1) First Offense - A warning letter will be sent to the student’s parents informing them of the problem as well as what action was taken. Second Offense - The student will be excluded from the bus for a period of five (5) days and his/her parents shall provide transportation to and from school during that period. Absence from school during this period will be considered truancy. A letter and phone call will be made.

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Third Offense - The student will be excluded from the bus for a period of thirty (30) school days and his/her parents shall provide transportation to and from school during that period. Absence from school during this period will be considered truancy. Any further infractions will be subject to an additional (30) school day suspension of bus privileges. Suspensions will be carried from year to year.

Consequences of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying of Students:

On or Off School Grounds, on a School Bus, at a School–Sponsored Function Kindergarten – Grade 5 Behavior

First Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense 4th Offense

Level 1 -Hurtful teasing or demeaning name calling* -Spreading rumors* -Use of insulting or obscene gestures (giving the finger, staring/glaring etc.) -Intimidating on any level* -Social isolation or exclusion (i.e. refusing to let students sit next to them; telling others not to be friends with another, etc.)

-Verbal Warning -Read literature on HIB - Student writes letter of apology to victim -Verbal Warning -Verbal Warning Read literature on HIB

-Written warning -Read literature on HIB -Student creates poster about HIB -Written warning

-1 day –in school intervention -Student writes a report on HIB- -1 day –in school intervention -1 day –in school intervention - School-based counseling

Parental Notification -Meeting with school administrator -1 day of Out of School suspension -1 day of Out of School suspension

Level Two -Harassing others based upon race, gender, ancestry, color, religion, natural origin, sexual orientation, or disability* -Hate or nasty notes* -Insulting remarks, (verbal or written)* - Physical acts

Parental Notification - Read literature re : HIB -Student writes letter of apology to student victim -Deprivation of privileges -Community Service

Parental Notification -Student writes a report re HIB -In- school intervention -Community service Written warning

Parental Notification - Saturday detention -Meet with student assistance counselor and/or principal Out of school suspension

Parental Notification -Referral to I&RS Committee --Out of school suspension for a period of time to be determined by the principal -Out of School suspension

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(pushing, bumping, tripping) -Spitting -Stalking or following another -Threatening violence*

-In school intervention -Written warning -Written warning

Saturday detention Written warning Saturday detention

-Out of school suspension -Meeting with student assistant counselor

-Out of school suspension Meeting with the principal

Level Three -Inflicting bodily harm (i.e. kicking, hitting, slapping, pinching or punching) -Destroying property -Stealing -Threatening with a weapon* -Exposing oneself

Parental notification -Out of school suspension 3 days -Parental conference -Parental conference -Parental conference -Parental conference

Parental notification -Out of school suspension for a period of 5 days -Parental conference before returning to school -Restitution for damages -Referral to I &RS Committee

Parental notification -Out of school suspension for a period of 5 days -Parental conference before returning to school -Restitution for damages -Referral to community –based mental health clinic

Parental notification -Consequences to be determined on an individual basis, based on the severity and patterns of behavior -Alternate placement -Expulsion

*Verbal, written, or via any electronic media, including but not limited to telephones, computer, cell phones, pagers, picture messages, emails or posting on a website

Timeline for Action

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MONTCLAIR BOARD OF EDUCATION

MISSION, VISION, AND CORE BELIEFS

Montclair Public Schools’ Mission

The Montclair Public School District is dedicated to creating a culture of learning and continuous improvement that provides every child with a high quality, rich and rigorous education, through a magnet system of integrated schools in which every school represents a strong, diverse and vibrant community of learners.

Montclair Public Schools’ Vision

The Montclair Public Schools will cultivate and support our students to become high academic achievers, curious and creative thinkers, and socially adept young people who are prepared for college and careers of the 21st century.

Core Beliefs

We believe:

• Challenging all students by providing academic rigor is essential to student success.

• All children, regardless of circumstances, can achieve at high levels.

• Academic achievement gaps can and will be eliminated.

• Effective principals and teachers are key to improving growth in student achievement. In addition, the Board of Education and Central Services must promote an environment of continuous improvement and innovation that results in a high performing district that is 100% focused on student achievement and success.

• Supportive and engaged parents, guardians and members of our diverse community must be welcomed as active participants in the education of our students.